Reusable dabbing system, apparatus, and method

ABSTRACT

Embodiments include a reusable dab cartridge comprising cleaner surfaces and a measuring tool configured to provide accurate and consistent dosing. The dab cartridge is also configured to be electrically connected to the electronics or battery portion of a vaporizer or other personal inhalation device, including, for example, existing vape pens and other vaporizers, reusable devices designed for electronic dabbing, and others. The dab cartridge can comprise: (1) a handle portion having a mouthpiece and an integrated dosage measuring tool, (2) a base portion including a concentrate dish, a heating element integrated into the dish, and a coupler for electrically connecting the heating element to a battery, and (3) a central portion coupled to the handle portion and the base portion on opposing ends and having a chimney to allow passage of vapor from the base portion to the handle portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/811,940, filed on Mar. 6, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/815,929, filed on Mar. 8, 2019.The contents of both applications are incorporated herein in theirentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to personal inhalation devices orvaporizers, and more specifically to inhalation devices configured fordabbing use.

BACKGROUND

With the recent growth in vaping and the legalization of certaincannabis-based products, the demand for personal inhalation devices thatcan deliver vaporized cannabis and other plant-based substances or herbshas risen dramatically, for both medicinal and non-medical purposes.Such devices are typically portable, self-contained devices that come invarying sizes and/or forms, including, for example, slim cylindrical“vape pens” designed to look and feel like a traditional pen, elongatedrectangular housings designed to fit easily within a pocket, widerectangular or square-shaped housings designed to fit comfortably withina hand, vaporizers that look and operate like traditional, medicinalinhalers, rigs or other dabbing devices designed for use with oil or waxsubstances, as well as many others.

One type of inhalation device is the vaporizer, or vape, whichelectrically heats a substance into a vapor upon activation and deliversthe vapor through a mouthpiece for inhalation. A typical vaporizerincludes: (1) a storage compartment for holding a substance to bevaporized, (2) an atomizer or other heating element for vaporizing theliquid, (3) a power source, such as, for example, a rechargeablelithium-ion battery, for powering the atomizer and/or delivery system,and (4) a mouthpiece to enable inhalation of the vapor. When power isapplied to the heating element, the heating element fires or activatesto aerosolize or vaporize the substance, which may be in direct orindirect contact with the heating element. Suction pressure is suppliedby the user at the mouthpiece, to pull the vaporized substance oraerosol through a barrel or delivery tube and out through themouthpiece.

In most vaporizers, the storage compartment, heating element, andmouthpiece are assembled into a single, smaller unit, known as acartridge, pod, or other substance delivery component, while the powersource is housed in a larger unit that also includes a receptacle forreceiving the substance delivery component and for electrically couplingthe power source thereto. The larger unit (also referred to herein as“an electronics device”) further includes electronics to control orsupply power to the heating element of the cartridge. For example, someexisting vaporizers activate the heating element in response to userselection of a power button or other input device. A number of existingvaporizers have multiple heat settings (e.g., high, medium, and low) tocontrol the amount of heat supplied to the substance by the heatingelement. Many existing vaporizers are configured for use with anycompatible cartridge, pod, or other substance delivery component,regardless of the type of heating element (e.g., coil or ceramic) usedor the type of substance (e.g., liquid solution, dry herb, or solidcompound) stored in the storage compartment. A cartridge may beconsidered “compatible” so long as it fits inside the receptacle of theelectronics device and can be electrically coupled thereto fordelivering power to the heating element of the cartridge.

Dabbing is an increasingly popular form of vaping that involves a stickyoil or wax comprising a very high concentration of cannabis, includingTHC, CBD, and/or other cannabinoid. Also referred to as shatter, budder,and butane hash oil (BHO), dabs are heated on a hot surface, typically anail head fired by a blow torch, and the resulting vapor is inhaled,usually through the glass tube of a dab rig. Dabs are typically storedin a small concentrate jar and scooped out using a metal tool and placedon the nail head just prior to use. Dab concentrates are quite messy tohandle, making it difficult to keep the nail head and tool clean ormess-free. Another drawback of traditional dabbing is that the dab rigsare not especially portable or convenient to use for several reasons,including the need to use a blow torch.

Recently, cartridges and vaporizers configured for use with dabbing havebeen developed. FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate an existing vaporizer 10comprising a dab cartridge 12 and an electronic device 14 configured toreceive the dab cartridge 12 therein. The electronic device 14 can alsobe used with other types of compatible cartridges, including oilcartridges, dry herb cartridges, or other non-dab cartridges. Theelectronic device 14 (also referred to herein as a “power source”)includes a battery (not shown), a receptacle 16 configured to receive,and electrically couple to, a compatible cartridge, and an activationbutton 18 for controlling or powering the cartridge placed in thereceptacle 16. The user presses the activation button 18 to pre-heat thedab cartridge 12, or other cartridge coupled to the electronics device14. In response, the battery supplies power to the dab cartridge 12,which activates a heating element within the dab cartridge 12. Theelectronics device 14 also includes a light indicator 20 to notify theuser when the cartridge 12 is ready for vaping use, or when the heatingelement is sufficiently heated to vaporize the dab concentrate.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate the mechanics of how to use the existing dabcartridge 12 for dabbing. As shown in FIG. 2A, the dab cartridge 12includes three components: a top portion 22 comprising a mouthpiece 24and a tool 26 for handling the dab concentrate, a middle portion 28comprising a hollow tube or barrel configured to allow vapor to travelup towards the mouthpiece 24, and a base portion 30 comprising a heatingelement 32 housed within a chamber 34 and configured to heat a dabplaced thereon. A bottom of the base portion 30 includes an electronicconnector 36 configured to electrically couple the cartridge 12 to theelectronics device 14, or the battery therein. The three components areremovably coupled together, so that the assembled form shown in FIG. 1Bcan be inserted into the electronics device 14, as shown in FIG. 1A, andthe disassembled form shown in FIG. 2A can be used to prepare thecartridge 12 for use, as shown in FIG. 2C.

In particular, during use, the mouthpiece 24 of the top portion 22serves as a handle for using the tool 26 to scoop concentrate out of ajar or other storage location and place it directly on the heatingelement 32 of the base portion 30, as shown in FIG. 2C. The top portion22 and the base portion 30 are then re-coupled to opposing ends of themiddle portion 28, and the assembled cartridge 12 is placed into theelectronics device 14. As shown in FIG. 2B, the heating element 32includes an exposed metal coil that is configured to heat dabconcentrate that is in direct contact with the coil. As the dabconcentrate heats up, it melts over the coil, flows into the chamber 34,and eventually vaporizes when the heating temperature is sufficientlyhigh. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece 24, the vapor travelsfrom the base portion 30, through the middle portion 28 (or chimney),and out through an opening on top of the mouthpiece 24. The top portion22 also includes apertures 38 to enable airflow between the mouthpiece24 and the chimney 28, which allows the vapor to travel into themouthpiece 24.

Due to the sticky nature of most dab concentrates, a residue 40 forms onthe heating element 32 and the tool 26 after just one use, and becomesincreasingly messier with each consecutive use. Residue 40 also buildsup on the walls of the chamber 34 when dab concentrate misses the coil,becomes stuck to the side walls, or is otherwise out of reach from theheating element 32, and therefore, does not become vaporized. Inaddition, residue 40 can build up on the outer rim of the base portion30, particularly when users utilize the chamber walls to scrapeconcentrate off of the tool 26. Concentrate residue is not only messy,but can interfere with future uses, particularly when the same cartridge12 is being used with different types of dab concentrates (e.g.,different concentration levels, ingredients, chemical properties,flavors, effects, etc.), thus resulting in potentially undesirablecombinations or experiences.

Another drawback of existing dab cartridges is that there are noindicators or tools to help the user accurately and consistently measurethe amount of concentrate that constitutes one dose. In some cases, theamount that constitutes one dose varies depending on the properties ofthe dab concentrate, such as, e.g., the particular strain, chemicalmakeup, ingredients, cannabis concentration level, etc. The amount ofconcentrate used during a given vaping session can also vary dependingon the user's preference and/or experience level. For example, someusers may prefer to use a larger dose for a more potent hit, while otherusers may prefer a lighter dose. On the other hand, inexperienced usersmay inadvertently use too much or too little without the tools to ensureaccurate and consistent dosing. As a result, existing dab cartridges maylead to unintended abuse or misuse of dab concentrates, as well asunpleasant, unwanted, and/or ineffective dabbing.

SUMMARY

Embodiments include a reusable dab cartridge comprising cleaner surfacesand a measuring tool configured to provide accurate and consistentdosing. The dab cartridge is also configured to be electricallyconnected to the electronics or battery portion of a vaporizer or otherpersonal inhalation device, including, for example, existing vape pensand other vaporizers, reusable devices designed for electronic dabbing,and others. More specifically, the dab cartridge comprises: (1) a handleportion having a mouthpiece and an integrated dosage measuring tool, (2)a base portion including a concentrate dish, a heating elementintegrated into the dish, and a coupler for electrically connecting theheating element to a battery, and (3) a central portion coupled to thehandle portion and the base portion on opposing ends and having achimney to allow passage of vapor from the base portion to the handleportion.

One exemplary embodiment includes an inhalant delivery device comprisingan upper housing detachably coupled to a lower housing. The lowerhousing comprises a heating element for heating a substance into avapor. The upper housing comprises a mouthpiece configured to deliverthe vapor to a user, and a dosing tool coupled to the mouthpiece andconfigured to deliver a preset amount of the substance to the lowerhousing.

According to some aspects, the upper housing further comprises a mainbody configured to house the dosing tool, the main body having a firstend coupled to the dosing tool below the mouthpiece and a second endconfigured for coupling to the lower housing. In one aspect, the mainbody may be detachably coupled to the dosing tool. According to anotheraspect, the dosing tool includes one or more apertures configured toallow the vapor to flow from the lower housing through the main body andinto the mouthpiece.

According to some aspects, the dosing tool comprises a capturingmechanism configured to grasp and hold the preset amount of substance.In one aspect, the capturing mechanism has an adjustable volume forchanging the preset amount of substance grasped by the dosing tool.According to another aspect, the capturing mechanism is removablycoupled to a housing portion of the dosing tool. According to someaspects, the dosing tool further comprises a dispensing mechanismconfigured to release the preset amount of substance into the lowerhousing upon actuation of the dispensing mechanism. In one aspect, thedepositing mechanism includes a spring mechanism coupled to themouthpiece, downward movement of the mouthpiece causing actuation of thespring mechanism.

According to some aspects, the lower housing further comprises a couplerfor securing the lower housing to an external power source.

Another exemplary embodiment includes an inhalant dispensing systemcomprising an upper housing detachably coupled to a lower housing. Thelower housing comprises a heating component for heating a substance intoa vapor. The upper housing comprises a mouthpiece configured to deliverthe vapor to a user, a dosing tool coupled to the mouthpiece andconfigured to deliver a preset amount of the substance to the lowerhousing, and a central portion configured to house the dosing tool andfor coupling to the lower housing.

According to some aspects, the lower housing further comprises a couplerconfigured to secure the lower housing to a power source. In one aspect,the coupler is configured for threaded attachment to the power source.In another aspect, the coupler is configured for magnetic attachment tothe power source. According to one aspect, the inhalant dispensingsystem further comprises the power source, and the power source includesa receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the lowerhousing.

In some aspects, the lower housing further comprises a heating chamberdisposed between the heating component and the coupler, the heatingchamber being configured to electrically couple the heating component tothe power source, upon securing the lower housing to the power source.According to one aspect, the heating component is detachably coupled tothe heating chamber.

According to some aspects, the heating component comprises a heatingsurface configured to receive the preset amount of substance, and aheating element disposed adjacent to the heating surface and configuredto transfer heat to the heating surface. In one aspect, the heatingelement is a coil configured to form a generally concave structure thatsubstantially conforms to a generally concave shape of the heatingsurface. According to another aspect, the heating element is embeddedwithin the heating component adjacent the heating surface, so as to forma one-piece structure.

While certain features and embodiments are referenced above, these andother features and embodiments of the present invention will be, or willbecome, apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following figures and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional embodiments and features includedwithin this description, be within the scope of the present invention,and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention can be better understood with reference to thefollowing drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarilyto scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating theprinciples of the present invention. In the drawings, like referencenumerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

FIG. 1A is a front view of an existing vaporizer consisting of a dabcartridge and an electronics device.

FIG. 1B is a side view of the existing dab cartridge shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a front view of the existing electronics device shown in FIG.1A.

FIG. 2A is an exploded view of the existing dab cartridge shown in FIG.1B.

FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of a bottom portion of the existingdab cartridge of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C illustrates top and bottom portions of the existing dabcartridge of FIG. 2A after being used to deposit dab concentrate intothe bottom portion.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary dab cartridge, inaccordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a base portion of the dab cartridgeshown in FIG. 3 , in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the base portion of FIG. 3 , inaccordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a concentrate dish included in the baseportion of FIG. 5 , in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a partially transparent, exploded view of the base portion ofFIG. 5 , showing a heating element integrated within the concentratedish, in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a partially transparent, side view of the concentrate dishshown in FIG. 7 , in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a partially transparent, top view of the concentrate dishshown in FIG. 7 , in accordance with certain embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the concentrate dish shown in FIG. 7 ,excluding a top surface for receiving dab concentrates, in accordancewith certain embodiments.

FIGS. 11A-G illustrate a method of using the exemplary dab cartridgeshown in FIG. 3 , in accordance with certain embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The description that follows describes, illustrates and exemplifies oneor more particular embodiments of the present invention in accordancewith its principles. This description is not provided to limit theinvention to the embodiments described herein, but rather to explain andteach the principles of the invention in such a way to enable one ofordinary skill in the art to understand these principles and, with thatunderstanding, be able to apply them to practice not only theembodiments described herein, but also other embodiments that may cometo mind in accordance with these principles. The scope of the presentinvention is intended to cover all such embodiments that may fall withinthe scope of the appended claims, either literally or under the doctrineof equivalents.

The term “substance delivery component” is used herein to denote anytype of device that includes a storage compartment for holding asubstance to be vaporized and a heating element for heating thesubstance, and is configured for electrical coupling to an electronicinhalation device or other, separate power source (e.g., via USBconnection). Exemplary substance delivery components include cartridges(e.g., dab or wax cartridges, oil cartridges, etc.), pods (e.g., dab orwax pods, oil pods, dry herb pods, etc.), and the like. The substancestored in the substance delivery component can also vary and may includeoils, concentrates, waxes, and other plant-based solids. In someinstances, the term “cartridge” is used for the sake of brevity butshould be understood as including all types of substance deliverycomponents. In some cases, the substance delivery component alsoincludes a mouthpiece to facilitate inhalation, for example, as iscommonly found in many cartridges and pods.

The terms “electronic device” and “electronic inhalation device” is usedherein to denote the power source component of any type of personalinhalant dispensing device that is configured to electrically connect toa substance delivery component in order to power the heating elementtherein. The electronic device may include a rechargeable or disposablebattery, or a port or connector for coupling to a power supply (e.g.,via a USB connection). In addition, the electronic device may include areceptacle for receiving the substance delivery component therein, or anexternal connector for connecting to the substance delivery component.Some electronic devices also include one or more user input devices forcontrolling operation of the cartridge and/or electronic device.Exemplary electronic inhalation devices include the battery componentsof vape pens, electronic dabbing devices, and other personal vaporizers.

The term “substance” is used herein to denote any type of productcapable of being vaporized and inhaled by a user and is not limited to aparticular consistency, format, blend, strain, ingredient-type, orotherwise. For example, the substances may include various types ofcannabis, tobacco, and other plant-based products, including blendsand/or strains thereof, and may come in various forms, including, forexample, a wax or other concentrate, a concentrated oil or othersolution, or other solid substance. The substances may also includevaporizable medicinal products.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary dab cartridge 100 (also referred toherein as an “inhalant delivery device”) comprising a handle portion102, a central portion 104 (also referred to herein as a “main body”),and a base portion 106, in accordance with embodiments. The handleportion 102 and the base portion 106 are removably or detachably coupledto opposite ends of the central portion 104, such that the base portion106 may be detached from the central portion 104 without removing thehandle portion 102, and vice versa. The handle portion 102 and thecentral portion 104 may be collectively referred to as an upper housingof the dab cartridge 100, while the base portion 106 may be referred toas a lower housing of the dab cartridge 100. Various types ofconnectors, fasteners, or connection mechanisms may be used to couplethe three portions 102, 104, and 106 to each other, including, forexample, magnetic connectors, threaded connectors, friction orinterference fit fasteners, snap fit fasteners, or any other suitabledetachable or non-permanent connection mechanism. In a preferredembodiment, a bottom end (also referred to herein as a “second end”) ofthe central portion 104 is coupled to a top end of the base portion 106using a threaded connection, for example, as shown in FIG. 3 . Inembodiments, the handle portion 102 can be coupled to a top end (alsoreferred to herein as a “first end”) of the central portion 104 using amagnetic connection, snap fit or friction fit mechanism, or othersuitable connection.

The handle portion 102 comprises a mouthpiece 108 with an opening 110for allowing vapors to exit the dab cartridge 100. During use, the userplaces the mouthpiece 108 in their mouth and applies suction pressure tointake vapors produced by the cartridge 100. The mouthpiece 108 alsoincludes an internal passageway 112 that is in communication with thecentral portion 104. The central portion 104 operates as a chimney forcarrying or guiding vapors generated by the base portion 106 to themouthpiece passageway 112. The handle portion 102 may include aplurality of apertures or vent holes for allowing vapors to flow fromthe chimney or central portion 104 into the passageway 112 (e.g., asshown in FIG. 11G).

The handle portion 102 also comprises an integrated dosing tool 114(also referred to herein as a “measuring tool”) that is coupled to adistal end of the mouthpiece 108, or opposite the opening 110, andextends into the central portion 104 once the handle portion 102 iscoupled to the central portion 104, as shown in FIG. 3 . The dosing tool114 includes a plunger 116 that is capable of grabbing one dose of dabconcentrate from a concentrate jar or other storage location, anddepositing the dab on the base portion 106 in a relatively mess-freemanner. More details about the dosing tool 114 will be described withrespect to FIGS. 11A-G.

Referring additionally to FIGS. 4-7 , the base portion 106 comprises aconcentrate dish 118 (also referred to herein as a “heating component”)for receiving a dab concentrate 120 on a top surface 122 (also referredto herein as a “heating surface”) of the dish 118. As shown in FIG. 7 ,the concentrate dish 118 is coupled to a heating chamber 124 of the baseportion 106. In some embodiments, the concentrate dish 118 may beremovably secured to the heating chamber 124 using a magnetic connectoror other appropriate connection mechanism. In such cases, theconcentrate dish 118 may be removed for cleaning purposes, or to bereplaced with a new dish. In other embodiments, the concentrate dish 118may be permanently or fixedly attached to the heating chamber 124.

As shown, the concentrate dish 118 has a substantially circular topsurface 122 that curves or slopes inwards (i.e. has a generally concaveshape) and is generally smooth or without sharp edges. Due to the shapeand even texture of the top surface 122, dab concentrate naturallyslides to, or collects in, a center of the top surface 122, either inits waxy or solid form, or after the solid form has been melted to aliquid, or both. As shown in FIG. 6 , the top surface 122 ends at anouter rim or lip 126 that forms an outer circumference of theconcentrate dish 118 and is configured to extend out past a lowersidewall 128 of the concentrate dish 118. That is, an innercircumference formed by the lower sidewall 128 is less than the outercircumference formed by the outer rim 126. The outer rim 126 may beconfigured to sit flush with and/or rest on top of a threaded wall 130of the heating chamber 124, to prevent the dab concentrate from spillingonto the threaded wall 130 or other external surfaces of the heatingchamber 124. When the concentrate dish 118 is coupled to the heatingchamber 124, the lower sidewall 128 extends down into a basin 132 of theheating chamber 124, while the outer rim 126 rests on top of thethreaded wall 130, as shown in FIG. 5 . In embodiments, the top surface122, the outer rim 126, and the lower sidewall 128 can be made ofceramic, stainless steel, or other easily cleanable or wipe-able surfacethat is also suitable for heating.

The threaded wall 130 on the exterior of the heating chamber 124 may beconfigured for coupling to a threaded internal wall 134 of the centralportion 104, as shown in FIG. 3 . In some embodiments, when the centralportion 104 is attached to the base portion 106, the concentrate dish118 remains securely in place between the two portions without requiringa separate fastening mechanism.

As shown, the heating chamber 124 further includes a coupler 136 at alower end of the chamber 124, opposite the threaded wall 130. Thecoupler 136 can be configured to secure the cartridge 100 to areceptacle of the electronic inhalation device (e.g., receptacle 16shown in FIG. 1C). In embodiments, the coupler 136 may be annular and/orhave a hollow center to enable electrical connection between an interiorof the heating chamber 124 and the battery of the electronic inhalationdevice. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupler 136 includes athreaded coupler (e.g., having a 510 thread) configured to allow thecartridge 100 to be screwed into a vape pen or the like. In someembodiments, the coupler 136 may also include a magnetic connector (notshown) that is coupled over the threaded coupler and is configured formagnetically coupling the cartridge 100 to the electronic inhalationdevice. In other embodiments, the coupler 136 may only include themagnetic coupler for securing the cartridge 100 to the electronicinhalation device.

Referring additionally to FIGS. 8-10 , the concentrate dish 118 furtherincludes an integrated heating element 138 for heating dab concentrateplaced on the top surface 122. The heating element 138 is shaped as acoil and is configured to spiral around, or otherwise follow thecontours of, the top surface 122, so that a majority portion of the topsurface 122 is in contact with, or is directly heated by, the heatingelement 138. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , the heating element 138can have a generally concave structure to substantially match or conformto the generally concave shape of the concentrate dish 118. Inembodiments, the concentrate dish 118 is formed or molded around theheating coil in order to fully integrate the heating element 138 withinthe dish 118 and to maximize contact between the heating element 138 andthe top surface 122. As an example, hot ceramic may be poured into amold containing the heating coil 138 and then cooled, thus forming aunitary or one-piece structure comprised of the top surface 122, outerrim 126, and sidewall 128 of the concentrate dish 118, and the heatingelement 138 fully embedded therein.

The concentrate dish 118 further include one or more conductive portionsfor delivering power to the heating element 138 from a power source, orthe battery of an electronic inhalation device. As shown in FIG. 10 ,the concentrate dish 118 may include a first conductor 140 attached(e.g., soldered) to a first leg 138 a of the heating element 138 and asecond conductor 142 attached (e.g., soldered) to a second leg 138 b ofthe heating element 138. In embodiments, the first conductor 140 can beconfigured to provide a positive electrical connection between theheating element 138 and the battery, and the second conductor 142 can beconfigured to provide a ground connection between the same.

For example, as shown in FIG. 10 , the second conductor 142 isconfigured to form an annular ring around the first conductor 140, whichis positioned concentrically within the second conductor 142. As shownin FIG. 4 , when the concentrate dish 118 is coupled to the heatingchamber 124, the second conductor 142 directly contacts an internal wallof the heating chamber 124 in order to provide the ground connection,and the first conductor 140 directly contacts a conductive pin 144 ofthe heating chamber 124. As also shown, the heating chamber 124 mayinclude a cavity 146 below the basin 132 for receiving the firstconductor 140 therein. The cavity 146 may be configured so that thefirst conductor 140 does not touch the internal walls of the heatingchamber 124, thus keeping ground conductor 142 physically andelectrically separated from the positive conductor 140. In embodiments,the conductive pin 144 extends out from, or is accessible from anexterior of, the heating chamber 124, so as to be placed in electricalcontact with a power source once the cartridge 100 is coupled to anelectronic inhalation device, for example. In this manner, theconductive pin 144 can deliver power to, or otherwise activate, theheating element 138. In embodiments, the heating chamber 124 may be madeof metal or any other material suitable for securely and electricallycoupling the cartridge 100 to an electronic inhalation device.

FIGS. 11A-G illustrate an exemplary method 200 of using the dabcartridge 100 shown in FIGS. 3-10 , in accordance with embodiments. FIG.11A illustrates a first step 202, wherein the handle portion 102 isremoved from the cartridge 100 and the integrated dosing tool 114 isinserted into a concentrate jar for storing dab concentrate 120. FIG.11B illustrates a second step 204, wherein the dosing tool 114 is usedto lift a single dose of dab concentrate 120 out of the jar.

As shown in FIG. 11A, the tool 114 comprises the plunger 116 (alsoreferred to herein as a “capturing mechanism”), which extends from ahousing portion 115 of the tool 114. According to embodiments, theplunger 116 is configured to grasp and hold a controlled or presetamount of concentrate, such as a single dose. For example, the plunger116 may include a tubular sidewall 148 that extends down from a bottomwall of the tool housing and has a downward-facing open end. The plunger116 also includes a solid tube 150 that is at least partially disposedwithin the sidewall 148 and at least partially disposed within the toolhousing. The tube 150 may be configured to move up and down, or travel,within the tubular sidewall 148. When the tube 150 is in a neutralposition, e.g., as shown in FIG. 11A, the tube 150 does not reach theopen end of the sidewall 148, leaving a clearance 152 between the openend of the sidewall 148 and a bottom surface of the tube 150. Theclearance 152 determines a depth of the cut made into the concentrateand therefore, the amount of substance that is retrieved. Inembodiments, the clearance 152 can be configured (e.g., sized and/orshaped) to have a volume that corresponds to a controlled amount ofconcentrate, such as the equivalent of one dose. In some cases, thesidewall 148 may be thin and at least somewhat sharp, so that theplunger 116 can easily cut into the dab concentrate 120, e.g., similarto a cookie cutter or die cut. In some embodiments, a height of theclearance 152 is adjustable to enable the plunger 116 to capturedifferent sized doses for different types of concentrates. For example,the tube 150 may have an adjustable length and/or may be movablerelative to the sidewall 148, so that the clearance 152 can be increasedor decreased, as needed. In one example embodiment, the clearance 152has a height of about 0.667 mm.

FIG. 11C illustrates a third step 206, wherein handle portion 102 isplaced over or on top of the base portion 104, and the concentrate dose120 is released from the tool 114 towards the concentrate dish 118 usinga dispensing mechanism of the tool 114. FIG. 11D illustrates a fourthstep 208, wherein the concentrate 120 is disposed on, or has fallenonto, the concentrate dish 118 and automatically or naturally slides tothe middle of the dish 118. In embodiments, the dispensing mechanism ofthe dosing tool 114 includes a spring mechanism 154 configured to helprelease the concentrate 120 from the plunger 116. As shown in FIG. 11B,the spring mechanism 154 may be positioned at a base 156 of themouthpiece 108 and may be coupled to or around the tube 150. In aneutral position, for example, as shown in FIG. 11B, the springmechanism 154 (or spring) presses against the base 156 in order to biasthe mouthpiece 108 upwards. In order to release the concentrate 120, theuser presses down on top of the mouthpiece 108, which cases themouthpiece base 156 to press down on, or compress, the spring mechanism154, which in turn causes a longitudinal movement of the tube 150 downthrough the sidewall 148. As shown in FIG. 11C, the tube 150 may beconfigured (e.g., sized) to stop at the open end of the sidewall 148,and the downward force exerted by the tube 150 causes the concentrate120 to break free from the tool 114 and drop down onto the concentratedish 118. Removing the downward pressure on the mouthpiece 108 causesthe spring mechanism 154 to return or spring back to its neutralposition, as shown in FIG. 11E. Thus, the dispensing mechanism of thedosing tool 114 may include not only the spring mechanism 154, but alsothe mouthpiece 108 that is used to actuate the spring. In someembodiments, the tool 114 may be made of silicon, ceramic, stainlesssteel, or other material that is suitable for heated environments andcan be easily cleaned.

FIG. 11F illustrates a fifth step 210, wherein the handle portion 102 issecured to the central portion 104, and the central portion 104 issecured to the base portion 106. Though FIG. 11F, shows the handleportion 102 being secured to the central portion 104 first, it should beappreciated that the central portion 104 could also be secured to thebase portion 106 first, as shown in FIG. 11E. Once the cartridge 100 isfully re-assembled, the user may begin dabbing (or vaping) byelectrically coupling the dab cartridge 100 to an electronic inhalationdevice (not shown) and activating the battery of such electronic device(e.g., by pressing an activation button). In response, power may bedelivered to the heating element 138 via the conductive pipe 144, whichmay be electrically coupled to the electronic inhalation device once thecartridge 100 is installed therein. This initiates a preheat function ofthe cartridge 100, which causes the heating element 138 to quickly heatup. Once the heating element 138 reaches a desired temperature, thebattery may hold that temperature for a fixed period of time (e.g., 2-4seconds) and then automatically shut off. In the meantime, the heat fromthe heating element 138 causes the dab concentrate 120 to vaporize. FIG.11G illustrates a step 212, wherein, in response to user inhalation atthe mouthpiece 108, the resulting vapors 158 can travel through thelength of the central portion 104 and the length of the mouthpiece 108,and then out the opening 110. As will be appreciated, the cartridge 100can be reused by repeating the steps of method 200.

While the illustrated embodiment includes a plunger-type mechanism 116to pick up dab concentrate, the dosing tool 114 may take on other forms,including, for example, a small silicon spatula or scoop, a metalscrewdriver head, hook, or scoop, etc. In some embodiments, the plunger116 may be replaceable and/or interchangeable with other types of toolsor tips, such as, for example, a cleaning tool (e.g., a brush or swab),different sized tools (e.g., a plunger with a different diameter and/orheight) configured for use with different types of concentrate, a newtool to replace a used one, etc. In such cases, the plunger 116 may beremovably secured to the housing portion 115 at a bottom end of the tool114, for example, using a threaded connection as shown in FIGS. 11A-C,and the new tools (not shown) may include a compatible threading forattachment to the tool end.

In some embodiments, the cartridge 100 may come with two concentratedishes that may be used interchangeably, for example, for differenttypes of concentrate. While the cartridge 100 is shown herein as havinga generally cylindrical shape, other embodiments may employ othershapes, including, for example, a flattened shape, a rectangular shape,or any other shape that is compatible with a given electronic inhalationdevice.

Some embodiments include an intelligent inhalant dispensing systemcomprising a “smart” cartridge or other substance delivery componentconfigured to provide information about the contents of the cartridge(e.g., exact type of strain, chemical makeup, or other substanceidentifying information), and a “smart” electronic inhalation deviceconfigured to obtain information from a smart cartridge installedtherein and facilitate monitoring, measuring, controlling, and/ortracking usage of the cartridge or device. In each cases, the cartridge100 may be configured as a smart cartridge that contains informationidentifying the substance contained in the cartridge, dosing informationfor that substance, and in some cases, heating profile informationspecific to the substance. The smart inhalation device may containinformation specific to the user of the device, and may combine thisinformation with the information from the cartridge to make dosing andadministration decisions. For example, the smart inhalation device mayinclude a dosage administration system configured to electronicallymonitor dosing and prevent excessive dosing, and a cartridgeidentification system configured to identify the cartridge being usedand obtain and/or provide dosage information associated therewith. Theinhalation device may work in association with the smart cartridge tocontrol dosing of the substance contained in the cartridge, monitor theuser's inhalant consumption over time, provide the user with variousinformation about the substance, such as, e.g., flavor profile, commonside effects, heating profile, etc., and, in some cases, providerecommendations for new products or substances that the user may enjoybased on the user's consumption history. In some embodiments, theinhalation device also includes a preparation system configured tomonitor preparation of the substance to be vaporized (e.g., throughshaking, heating temperature and/or time, etc.) and provide anindication when the substance is ready for use. One or more of the abovefeatures may require the use of wireless communication with a personalelectronic device, such as, e.g., a smartphone. Additional details aboutexemplary embodiments of the intelligent inhalant dispensing system maybe found in commonly-owned U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/810,006, filed on Feb. 25, 2019, the contents of which areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changesmay be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing fromthe scope of the novel and non-obvious techniques disclosed in thisapplication. Therefore, it is intended that the novel teachings of thepresent invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed,but that they will include all embodiments falling within the scope ofthe appended claims.

1. (canceled)
 2. A heating assembly for use in an inhalant deliverydevice to heat a substance into a vapor, the heating assemblycomprising: a base chamber configured for electrical connection to apower source of the inhalant delivery device; and a heating componentdetachably coupled to the base chamber, the heating componentcomprising: a sidewall configured to extend into the base chamber; anouter rim extending around the sidewall and configured to rest on anupper surface of the base chamber; a heating surface configured toreceive the substance; a heating element disposed adjacent the heatingsurface; and a first conductor coupled to the heating element andconfigured to electrically connect the heating element to the basechamber.
 3. The heating assembly of claim 2, wherein the heating elementis configured to surround a majority portion of the heating surface. 4.The heating assembly of claim 2, wherein the heating element has avertical height configured to overlap with a vertical height of theheating surface.
 5. The heating assembly of claim 2, wherein the heatingelement is embedded within the heating surface.
 6. The heating assemblyof claim 2, wherein the heating surface is disposed adjacent to thesidewall and within the outer rim.
 7. The heating assembly of claim 2,wherein upon coupling the heating component to the base chamber, anexterior surface of the outer rim is flush with an exterior surface ofthe base chamber.
 8. The heating assembly of claim 2, wherein the outerrim is positioned above the heating element such that the outer rim isnot directly heated by the heating element.
 9. The heating assembly ofclaim 2, wherein the base chamber comprises at least one electricalcontact configured to electrically connect the power source to the firstconductor of the heating component.
 10. The heating assembly of claim 2,further comprising a second conductor coupled to the heating element andconfigured to contact the base chamber, wherein the heating element hasa first end connected to the first conductor and a second end connectedto the second conductor.
 11. The heating assembly of claim 10, whereinthe first conductor is positioned concentrically within the secondconductor.
 12. The heating assembly of claim 2, further comprising aconnector for detachably coupling the heating component to the basechamber.
 13. A heating assembly for heating a substance into a vapor foruser inhalation, the heating assembly comprising: a base chamber forelectrically connecting to a power source; and a heating componentconfigured to be electrically connected to the base chamber, the heatingcomponent comprising: a sidewall configured to extend into a basin ofthe base chamber; an outer rim extending around the sidewall andconfigured to rest on an upper surface of the base chamber; a heatingsurface disposed adjacent the sidewall and configured to receive thesubstance; and a heating element disposed adjacent the heating surface.14. The heating assembly of claim 13, further comprising at least oneconductor coupled to the heating element and configured for electricalconnection to the base chamber.
 15. The heating assembly of claim 14,wherein the base chamber comprises at least one electrical contactconfigured to transfer power from the power source to the at least oneconductor.
 16. The heating assembly of claim 13, further comprising aconnector for detachably coupling the heating component to the basechamber.
 17. The heating assembly of claim 13, wherein the heatingelement is configured to surround a majority portion of the heatingsurface.
 18. The heating assembly of claim 13, wherein the heatingelement has a vertical height configured to overlap with a verticalheight of the heating surface.
 19. The heating assembly of claim 13,wherein the heating element is embedded within the heating surface. 20.The heating assembly of claim 13, wherein the outer rim is positionedabove the heating element such that the outer rim is not directly heatedby the heating element.
 21. The heating assembly of claim 13, wherein anexterior surface of the outer rim is flush with an exterior surface ofthe base chamber.